I along with millions of other cell phone users have fallen victim to the "All Binding" cell phone contract. I have a Family Plan (me and my fiancé), which costs a ridiculous $70.40/month especially because I hardly ever use my phone (about 40 minutes/month).

My fiancée doesn't use his at all because he had lost it and decided to sign up with another mobile phone provider that has no contracts. So now I'm paying $70 for my line and a line that is no longer in use.

Of course at the inception of the contract it was not disclosed to us of the fees that we would incur if we were to cancel the phones prior to the "maturity" date, which in our case is February of 2005! The extra line not in use is costing me $43.98 per month! I inquired as to what it would cost if I canceled my service and I was quoted $150 per phone! That's $300!! Are there any loopholes you know of concerning these cell phone contracts?

I appreciate any advice you can give me.

Annette

To the best of my knowledge the contract you signed is legally binding.

I agree that the monthly fee may indeed be ridiculously high but you agreed to it! You further state that the cancellation fee was not disclosed to you. From the way that you wrote this letter it is very difficult for me to believe that you were ignorant of the fees involved should you cancel the contract. If in fact you never read a cell Phone ad (The fees are disclosed in every ad.) or read the contract let this be a lesson, don't sign anything you have not fully read and understood.

There could be a bright side to this situation it's only costing you a few hundred dollars to find out that your boy friend is not much of a man stiffing you with the contract.

Here is the advice that you asked for, pay the cell phone company and get a new boyfriend. (One that's more of a man.)

Tim

More letters to Tim ™

Back to Top